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Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah

Locations
Modern Location Tell `Ashtara, Jordan
Coordinates 32.5333, 35.8333

Geographical Setting

Ashteroth Karnaim is an ancient settlement in the region of Gilead, identified with the modern site of Tell `Ashtara in Jordan.

What is the meaning of Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah in the Bible?

Ashteroth Karnaim is a biblical city located in Gilead, traditionally identified with the archaeological site of Tell `Ashtara in modern Jordan. The name likely denotes a dual-city structure or a significant cultic center associated with the worship of the deity Ashtoreth.

SIGNIFICANCE

Identifying Ashteroth Karnaim helps readers locate the specific geographical setting of the Rephaim in the Transjordan, providing concrete historical context for the territorial conflicts described in Genesis 14.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah (located near modern Tell `Ashtara, Jordan) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Ashtaroth; Ashteroth-Karnaim; Beeshterah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ashtaroth-ashterothkarnaim-beeshterah/
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